The 3D graphene is replacing the platinum electrode in a die sensitized solar cell, but the researchers believe it can also be used for other bulk-material applications, such as battery electrodes. Because it is made with a wet chemistry process, I would not expect the same technique to be used on chips which mostly use vapor deposition.

So, if i understood it correctly then 3D graphene is providing conductive interface to the outside world...then why not apply this technology to the normal semiconductor process? Or the application is only tuned for solar cells.

The weekly reports of promising breakthroughs in solar cell technology tell me that we're looking at a technology in the midst of rapid change. It would appear that patience is needed before building any fabrication plants since just about when they come on-line is the date that they're obsolete. I can't wait until the technology stabilizes at a new economical price point and solar cells become a very competitive product for home power generation.

So far the researchers have only tested 3-D graphene's conductivity and performance in die-sensitized solar cells. Next they will optimize the process, at which point they will likely address the issues of longevity and stability.